Well, I guess you can say that I've taken the easy solution, and they have worked out very well for me over many years.
If it works, it works, that's all that matters.
I like the ability to place the mag-mounts in the position where they will perform the best, and the ability to quickly remove them when entering low-ceiling parking garages and then replacing them when leaving.
Just for the record, you can do that with any NMO mount. Unscrew the antenna, toss it in the car or trunk and go on your way.
I have never experienced any lack of performance via the mag mount antennas, which I know is a subjective opinion. But tests I've seen indicate that mag-mount antennas perform as well as any other vehicle antennas of comparative lengths, and if they suffer from lack of performance, it is difficult or impossible to show it on field-strength equipment.
Yep, testing will show a 0.1dB difference between a permanent NMO mount and a mag mount in the same space, however that can vary depending on frequency. No one is going to be able to hear that ~0.1dB deficit for a mag mount.
Also, without a true DC ground at the antenna base, and a mismatched antenna, you can get some unwanted RF on the coax shield that can create issues in some installations.
On the flip side, paint damage is a concern for some. And then there's the getting the coaxial cable inside the vehicle. That can require running coaxial cable through doors or windows. That can, in some cases, damage cable. Pinching in doors/windows can change the characteristic impedance or damage the jacket and let water in. As a long term solution, it can be problematic for those that live in rainy/snowy environments.
And about those cigarette plugs: I've had no problems through the years using them. I'm always ready to string 12vdc lines to the battery if I ever suffer interference etc, but so far I'm batting 100% using them.
Seems to vary. For a 4 watt CB radio, there shouldn't be an issue with the connection if you are using good cigarette lighter plugs. Cheap ones can have contact issues over time. That can lead to arcing, damaged contacts, etc.
But, if it's working for you, that's great.
Some vehicles are worse for RFI than others. Since cigarette lighter socket wiring can route along with other vehicle wiring, it can be a common way for RFI to get into the CB. On an CB using AM/SSB, that can be an issue.
So, if anyone doesn't want to punch that hole in the roof or string that wire through the firewall to the battery, don't fear trying those less invasive easy solutions first, if you're so inclined.
Yeah, as always, each should do what they are most comfortable with. No one should be attacking their vehicle with a hole saw if they are not comfortable with it.